Seeking reassurance on the protection of Ryedale’s countryside local MP, Kevin Hollinrake, was pleased to be told that any shale gas project in the area would be thoroughly scrutinized.
Kevin Hollinrake MP for Thirsk and Malton raised his concern in Parliament;
“There is an application to explore for shale gas in the beautiful area of Ryedale in my constituency. Assuming the application and the exploration are successful, what assurances can the Minister offer that an expansion of the industry will not lead to an industrialization of that beautiful area?”
The response came from Andrea Leadsom MP, Minister of State at Department of Energy and Climate Change:
“ I can absolutely assure my hon. Friend that all onshore oil and gas projects, including shale gas projects, are subject to scrutiny through the planning system, which addresses impacts on residents such as traffic movements, noise and working hours, and that national planning guidance says that, in respect of minerals such as shale oil and gas, new developments should not just be appropriate for their location but take into account the effects of pollution, including the cumulative effects, on health, the natural environment or general amenity, and the potential sensitivity of the area. I am well aware of what a beautiful area he lives in and I assure him we are absolutely focused on that.”
Mr. Hollinrake is pleased that his fellow MP appreciates the beauty of his constituency and says he will continue to seek assurances that proper checks will be carried out every step of the way if any Shale Gas Production does go ahead in the district.
“It is important to me and to all residents in North Yorkshire that the amazing landscape that we hold so dear is looked after. We need new sources of energy but not at the cost of losing our precious, natural heritage to over industrialization. I am glad the Minister recognizes the stunning, countryside location of Ryedale that attracts so many people to visit and live in my constituency.”